It is time to challenge long-held assumptions about the limited nature of Russia and China’s relationship. What we are witnessing is deepening and substantive cooperation, even if it lacks the hallmarks of a traditional treaty alliance.

Over the last few months, defense and security ties between China and Russia have gained new momentum. Commentators have argued that U.S. pressure on both countries is driving them together, to the possible detriment of American interests. Richard Weitz discusses the future of the Russia-China military partnership and trends to strengthen military collaboration within the Shanghai Cooperation Organization.

In the South China Sea, Russia and China do not have, and nor do they seek, a formal alliance. Instead they have agreed to cooperate and coordinate on international issues over which their interests converge. On issues where their interests diverge—and especially those pertaining to each other’s core interests—they have agreed not to oppose each other.

Despite the shocking withdrawal by the US from the Paris climate accord, the G20 Summit in Hamburg, demonstrated that good and healthy bilateral relations continue to play their roles. Strategic partnerships are gaining respect, popularity and upgrading.